Harbor Seals are much smaller than sea lions and look like swollen cigars 5-6 feet (1.5-1.8 meter) long. their color varies from light gray or tan to almost black and they are nearly always spotted. Unlike sea lions, their ears are not visible and the short rear flippers, which point away from the body, are unsuited for moving about on land. These usually silent animals frequently bask on rocks just above the water where a quick getaway is possible.